solar cell

noun

: a photovoltaic cell used as a power source

Examples of solar cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And even the best solar cells available today can convert only about half the sunlight that hits them to electricity. — Sven Bilén, The Conversation, 16 June 2026 The real breakthrough of the technology may not simply be the thinness of the solar cells, but how the NTU team manufactured them. — New Atlas, 26 May 2026 In addition, the Tianzhou-10 toted up to the station China's first dynamic, in-service test of perovskite solar cells. — Leonard David, Space.com, 27 May 2026 Already, countries like India and Türkiye are growing solar manufacturing hubs, importing midstream solar cells rather than finished photovoltaic modules. — Natasha Bracken, semafor.com, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for solar cell

Word History

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of solar cell was in 1955

Rhymes for solar cell

See All Rhymes for solar cell

Browse Nearby Words

solar battery
solar cell
solar collector
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Solar cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solar%20cell. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

solar cell

noun
: a photoelectric cell that converts sunlight into electrical energy and is used as a power source

More from Merriam-Webster on solar cell

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about solar cell

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